Google Adds Real-Time ‘Crowdedness’ Feature for Mass Transit to Maps App
Google added three new features to its Maps app designed to help travelers stay safe amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
The list of new features includes an expansion of its live “crowdedness” information for public transit systems, which displays the real-time busy state of transit lines when users look up directions. Previously, the Maps app only displayed such information for stations.
“If you need to take transit, Google Maps can help you more easily social distance with live crowdedness information,” the company said in a statement. “On Android and iOS globally, you’ll start seeing how crowded your bus, train, or subway line is right now based on real-time feedback from Google Maps users around the world (wherever data is available).”
Google is also enhancing how it displays how coronavirus cases are trending in areas. In September it began to display the seven-day average of cases per 100,000 people, and going forward will also display the all-time number of confirmed cases and deaths from the virus.
Finally, the Maps app will display the live status of takeout and delivery food orders in multiple countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, and the United States. The data will include expected wait times and delivery fees and users can place orders from within the app.
(Photo: Accura Media Group)